Melon it contains a large amount of water and relatively few calories, so it is suitable for dietary nutrition, as a diuretic and for cleansing the body.
One portion of melon of 150 grams contains:
53 calories, 0,3 g fat, 13 g carbohydrates, 1,4 g fiber, 30% of the daily value of vitamin A and 78% of the daily value of vitamin C.
In some Californian varieties, 100 percent daily requirements of vitamins A and C were measured. This delicious fruit is rich in antioxidants choline, zeaxanthin and beta carotene, which provide protection against a number of diseases - from the common cold to cancer. Given that 90-95% of its composition is water, it is an ideal fruit for hydration during hot summer days.
The seeds, which are also edible, contain protein, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids in the form of alpha-linolenic acid.
Medicinal action of melon
1. Protects eye health
Melon contains nutrients important for eye health - beta carotene (from which vitamin A is released), vitamin C, lutein and zeaxanthin. Zeaxanthin is an important carotenoid that is absorbed into the retina of the eye where it acts as an antioxidant and UV protection. Several studies have shown that carotenoids slow down the destructive process in the retina and retinal pigment that leads to macular degeneration (a disease of the central part of the retina that usually occurs in the elderly). Given that numerous studies have shown that a severe deficiency of vitamins A and C can lead to glaucoma and macular degeneration, and even blindness, melon is an excellent choice for preventing or slowing the development of these disorders.
2. Reduces the risk of asthma
The risks of developing asthma are lower in people who consume higher amounts of certain nutrients. One of them is beta carotene, found in yellow and orange fruits such as melons, pumpkins, carrots and green leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale. Vitamin C is also an important nutrient that protects against asthma, helps against oxygen loss and reduces the risk of allergic reactions, and melon contains it in large quantities.
3. Regulates blood pressure
Cantaloupe contains fiber, potassium, vitamin C and choline that support heart health. Eating potassium-rich foods helps regulate sodium levels, which is important in treating high blood pressure. Potassium helps the body to release excess sodium and thus reduces high blood pressure. Potassium is also needed to regulate water balance, acid-base balance and neuromuscular function, and also plays an important role in the transmission of electrical impulses to the heart. Potassium intake is also associated with a reduced risk of stroke and loss of muscle mass. This mineral preserves bone density and prevents the formation of kidney stones.
4. Protects against cancer
Cantaloupe is a rich source of antioxidants that play a protective role in preserving the body's healthy cells from damage and inflammation that can lead to cancer. Thus, many studies have come to the conclusion that melons can be useful in the prevention of colon, prostate, breast, endometrial, lung and pancreatic cancer. Melon compounds cucurbitacins have repeatedly shown anti-cancer activity during research.
Their actions ranged from reducing the spread of cancer and self-destruction of cells to completely stopping the cell cycle in cancer cells.
5. Regulates digestion
Melon is an easily digestible food and is recommended to be eaten on an empty stomach and before another meal. It is also a good choice for those with a sensitive stomach because it contains enzymes and does not waste the body's energy on digesting food. Due to the abundance of fiber and water, it prevents constipation and helps in the regulation of digestion, the health of the digestive tract and the elimination of toxins from the intestines.
6. It has an anti-inflammatory effect
Choline is an important nutrient in cantaloupe that helps with better sleep, learning and memory. It is also important for maintaining the elasticity of cell membranes, transmission of nerve impulses, utilization of fat and reduction of chronic inflammation. Regular consumption of melon helps to reduce oxidative stress and thus reduces the inflammatory processes that can lead to the development of arthritis.
Inflammation in the body is also associated with the onset of metabolic syndrome, which denotes a group of metabolic disorders. These disorders are manifested as insulin resistance, accumulation of fatty tissue in the abdominal area (abdominal or central obesity), high cholesterol and elevated blood pressure. Research has shown that women who consumed 350 grams of fruit per day had a significantly lower risk of developing this syndrome. The study included cantaloupe, apples, grapes, watermelon and bananas.
7. Protects skin and hair
Regular consumption of melon is excellent for the beauty of the skin and hair. This is due to the influence of vitamin A, which is necessary for the production of sebum that moisturizes the skin and hair and is essential for their growth.
Vitamin A is essential for a clear complexion, and it can also help protect against UV rays that cause faster skin aging. In addition to vitamin A, vitamin C is also important for building and maintaining collagen, which gives structure to the skin and hair. That's why melon is an excellent help against wrinkles and premature aging. In addition to food, you can also use it directly on the skin and hair as a mask or conditioner.
Melon seeds are especially recommended for kidney diseases, especially kidney stones.
According to Ayurveda, melon seeds have a cooling effect and are ideal for consumption during the summer.
In India, ground melon seeds are added to lassi (yoghurt drink) and thandai (cold spiced milk), and whole seeds to sweets and halwa. The fruit, seeds and seed oil are an ancient remedy for treating various ailments such as cough, fever, parasites, stomach, digestive, kidney and urinary disorders.
Melon flower tea is used for expectoration. If you use beta blockers or have weak functioning kidneys, consume melon in moderate quantities.
Source: BKTVnews.com
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